theorize

verb

the·​o·​rize ˈthē-ə-ˌrīz How to pronounce theorize (audio)
ˈthir-ˌīz
theorized; theorizing

transitive verb

1
: to form a theory about
2
: to propose as a theory
theorization noun
theorizer noun

Examples of theorize in a Sentence

Many scientists have theorized about the possibility of life on other planets.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The team theorized that these X-rays were produced by a gas heated to the temperature of over 1 million degrees Fahrenheit (600,000 degrees Celsius). Robert Lea, Space.com, 23 Dec. 2024 According to a paper published in Archaeology International, rather than being a temple, a calendar or an observatory — as many archeologists have theorized — Stonehenge is political. Jamie Carter, Forbes, 21 Dec. 2024 While initially used to transform geneticists’ approach to DNA sequencing, researchers at China’s Nanjing University recently theorized that the same strategy could be applied to alcoholic drinks such as wine. Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 18 Dec. 2024 Investigators theorized that Hunt had developed the same sadistic taste. Clara Harter, Los Angeles Times, 17 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for theorize 

Word History

First Known Use

1644, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of theorize was in 1644

Dictionary Entries Near theorize

Cite this Entry

“Theorize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/theorize. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

theorize

verb
the·​o·​rize ˈthē-ə-ˌrīz How to pronounce theorize (audio)
theorized; theorizing
: to form a theory : speculate
theorizer noun
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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